Song Tabs

 "Moody River," originally recorded by Pat Boone, is a classic ballad featuring a gentle, flowing rhythm and a somber mood. The song's simplicity and repetitive chord structure make it accessible for beginners.

Chords and Progression

The song uses the chords G, Em, C, and B7.
If you're new to B7, practice switching between Em and B7, as these transitions occur frequently in the verses.

Strumming Pattern

A simple down-down-up-up-down-up pattern works well for this song, matching its moderate pace and flowing feel. Try to keep the strumming soft and even, especially during verses, to reflect the song's melancholic tone.

Chord Transitions and Tips

- Practice moving between G and Em, as these changes happen repeatedly in the intro and chorus.
- The change from Em to B7 may feel a bit tricky at first; take it slow, focusing on finger placement.
- For the C to G transition, lead with your ring finger for smoother movement.
- Let the chords ring out and avoid muting strings unnecessarily to preserve the song's flowing quality.

Techniques

Try light palm muting on the verses for a softer dynamic, opening up to full strums on the chorus for emotional impact.
Use a capo if the key feels too low or high for your voice.

With practice, the repetitive structure will help build your confidence and fluidity with basic chord changes.